There is an enormous demand for sewing and pattern-making classes throughout the United States but for many years people have had to fit them into their busy schedules.

Eric W. Stiles Sr., proprietor of Chicago-based EWS & Fashion Design Academy, has taught classes since 1990 but such classes have not been widely available for years. His course is being made available online through 23 host colleges in California, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Texas.

These community education classes will be of interest to anyone wanting to make or alter clothing for themselves and their families and will benefit those who wish to operate an alteration shop or create their own clothing line.

Las Positas College is accepting registration for Sewing/Construction and Pattern Drafting (Making) community education classes which will take place from September 19, 2011, through October 10, 2011. To register, call (925) 424-1467 or visit http://tinyurl.com/3uplr45.